{"id":145265,"date":"2026-02-25T21:26:34","date_gmt":"2026-02-25T21:26:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/145265\/"},"modified":"2026-02-25T21:26:34","modified_gmt":"2026-02-25T21:26:34","slug":"i-on-politics-queens-gazette-18","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/145265\/","title":{"rendered":"I On Politics – Queens Gazette"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\u00a0\"<\/a><\/p>\n

MAMDANI RELEASES FISCAL YEAR 2027 PRELIMINARY BUDGET:<\/p>\n

\u201cThere are two paths to bridge the city\u2019s inherited budget gap. The first path is the most sustainable and fairest: raising taxes on the wealthiest and corporations, and ending the drain by fixing the imbalance between what the City provides the State and what we receive in return,\u201d said Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani. \u201cIf we do not go down the first path, the City will be forced to go down a second, more harmful path of property taxes and raiding our reserves \u2014 weakening our long-term fiscal footing and placing the onus for resolving this crisis on the backs of working and middle-class New Yorkers. We do not want to have to turn to such drastic measures to balance our budget. But, faced with no other choice, we will be forced to.\u201d<\/p>\n

Upon taking office, the Mamdani Administration identified a pattern of underbudgeted essential services, including rental assistance, shelter operations, and special education \u2014 that widened projected gaps stated in the November 2025 Financial Plan Update to roughly $12 billion across FY 2026 and FY 2027. To restore transparency and stability, the Mamdani Administration launched aggressive new savings initiatives, maximized the use of in-year reserves and incorporated updated revenues. Through Executive Order 12, Mayor Mamdani is requiring every city agency to designate a Chief Savings Officer (CSO) to identify recurring efficiencies. These savings initiatives are projected to save $1.77 billion across the two fiscal years.<\/p>\n

After applying savings, revenue adjustments driven by an upward revision of $7.3 billion in tax revenue, and State support \u2014 including $1.5 billion in from Governor Kathy Hochul and an additional $97 million in Foundation Aid \u2014 the City faced a remaining two-year gap of $5.4 billion. The Mamdani Administration\u2019s preferred solution is recurring revenue: increasing personal income taxes on New Yorkers earning more than $1 million annually and raising taxes on the most profitable corporations, while recalibrating the City\u2019s long-imbalanced fiscal relationship with the State.<\/p>\n

Absent new revenue authority, the City will be forced to use the only tools currently available to increase revenue and fill this gap: property taxes and the use of reserves. The $127 billion FY 2027 Preliminary Budget assumes a 9.5 percent property tax rate increase \u2014 generating $3.7 billion in FY 2027. The City also applied $980 million from the city\u2019s Rainy Day Reserve Fund in FY 2026 and $229 million from the Retiree Health Benefit Trust in FY 2027 in order to balance the budget as legally required.<\/p>\n

Of $14 billion in city-funded agency expense changes across the two fiscal years, the vast majority fills underbudgeted needs. Roughly 4 percent \u2013 $576 million \u2013 supports targeted investments, including: $100 million in FY 2026 for snow removal; $5 million in FY 2026 for warming centers and shelter connections for homeless New Yorkers; $11.9 million in FY 2027 for new Street Health Outreach & Wellness (SHOW) mobile units and a new Bridge to Home site for people living with severe mental illness; $5.3 million in FY 2026 and $38 million in FY27 for 200 new attorneys and 100 support staff to reduce tort liability and advance affordability efforts; and more than tripling baseline funding for HRA\u2019s Community Food Connection program with an addition of $54 million in FY 2027. The Preliminary Five-Year Capital Plan totals $113 billion in all-funds and includes $662 million in FY 2027 to modernize and preserve more than 3,200 affordable housing units and $48.2 million starting in FY 2027 to fully fund the renovation and expansion of Bellevue\u2019s Adult Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program.<\/p>\n

QBP RICHARDS ON PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX HIKE IN MAYOR\u2019S PRELIMINARY BUDGET:<\/p>\n

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. stated the following in response to the proposed 9.5 percent property tax increase included in Mayor Mamdani\u2019s $127 billion Fiscal Year 2027 Preliminary Budget, which his office released today.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs I told Mayor Mamdani this afternoon, a property tax hike upwards of 9.5 percent, as considered, is a nonstarter. Under no circumstance should we consider balancing our budget on the backs of working-class New Yorkers, especially seniors on fixed incomes and public sector workers who keep our city running,\u201d said Borough President RICHARDS. \u201cIn this new era, Queens homeowners desperately need our city to reform its already broken property tax system \u2014 one that sees Black and brown homeowners in middle class communities paying more than brownstone owners in the city\u2019s most affluent neighborhoods. To enact such a significant property tax increase across the board would only worsen our wealth inequality and overall affordability crises, while threatening to return us to the days of the 2008 financial catastrophe, when Southeast Queens the national epicenter of property foreclosures.<\/p>\n

\u201cInstead of potentially pushing even more everyday New Yorkers out of the city they helped build, I strongly encourage our partners in Albany to work with our local government and identify more sensible paths \u2014 such as reforming our property assessment system or targeting record-high Wall Street bonuses \u2014 toward raising revenues and balancing our budget.\u201d<\/p>\n

MENIN AND LEE ON THE MAYOR\u2019S PRELIMINARY BUDGET PROPOSAL:<\/p>\n

New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin and Council Member Linda Lee, Chair of the Committee on Finance, issued the following statement on Mayor Zohran Mamdani\u2019s Preliminary Budget Proposal:<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Mayor\u2019s Preliminary Budget marks the beginning of a critical conversation about how we safeguard New York City\u2019s fiscal future while protecting New Yorkers.<\/p>\n

\u201cAt a time when New Yorkers are already grappling with an affordability crisis, dipping into rainy day reserves and proposing significant property tax increases should not be on the table whatsoever. The Council believes there are additional areas of savings and revenue that deserve careful scrutiny before increasing the burden on small property owners and neighborhood small businesses, which could worsen the affordability crisis.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Council will release its own projections ahead of preliminary budget hearings and will conduct a thorough review of the Administration\u2019s financial projections. Our goal is to deliver a balanced budget that protects essential services, addresses the affordability crisis, and reflects shared fiscal responsibility.\u201d<\/p>\n

CITIZENS BUDGET COMMISSION ON NYC PRELIMINARY BUDGET:\u00a0\u00a0 <\/p>\n

\u201cMayor Mamdani\u2019s Preliminary Budget proposes a false choice: either the State raises personal income and business taxes or the City raises property taxes and saps money from reserves, including those to protect New Yorkers from a recession. The best choice is to eliminate spending that does not improve New Yorkers\u2019 lives and make government more efficient and effective. The Mayor should ensure that every one of the people\u2019s $127 billion is used well, before asking them to dig into their pockets. $1 billion is a good start, but there\u2019s much more to be saved. The Administration should not raise taxes, which will make the City less attractive for New Yorkers who fund our schools, police, and sanitation\u2014and the businesses that create jobs and support our economy.<\/p>\n

\u201cPulling $1.2 billion from the Rainy Day Fund and the RHBT to balance the City budget depletes funds that should be saved for recession and to pay for future retiree health benefits. Assuming the City will replenish the funds in FY28, when the budget shows a $6.7 billion gap, is at best extremely tenuous and at worst a gamble. By reducing in-year reserves to $100 million, the City has given itself virtually no budget cushion next year, when federal cuts and a tenuous economy could throw the budget out of balance.<\/p>\n

\u201cDespite the budget\u2019s challenges, the Mamdani Administration deserves kudos for presenting a budget that corrects prior administration\u2019s underbudgeting and accounts for current service levels and expected growth. Transparent budgets help all New Yorkers better understand the City\u2019s challenges.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe City should redouble its efforts to find more substantial savings by the Executive Budget and commit to an affordable, efficient government that provides quality services for all New Yorkers.\u201d<\/p>\n

RIDERS ALLIANCE STATEMENT ON THE MAYOR\u2019S PRELIMINARY BUDGET:<\/p>\n

Riders Alliance Policy & Communications Director Danny Pearlstein said:<\/p>\n

\u201cThe preliminary budget appears to contain no expansion of the Fair Fares program, despite the recent fare hike, the struggle one in five riders face to afford the fare, and the dilemma too many New Yorkers face between the fare, other necessities, and the risk of arrest just to get around.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen the final budget is adopted in June, public transit riders expect the mayor and Council to broaden the eligibility requirements and deepen the affordability of Fair Fares, delivering reduced or free subway, bus and paratransit fares to two million New Yorkers who need them.\u201d<\/p>\n

GONZ\u00c1LEZ-ROJAS APPLAUDS $1.5 BILLION STATE-CITY AGREEMENT:<\/p>\n

Assemblymember Jessica Gonz\u00e1lez-Rojas, alongside State Senator Gustavo Rivera and Council Member Lynn Schulman, commended the announcement of $1.5 billion in additional state operating support for New York City over two years. Assemblymember Jessica Gonz\u00e1lez-Rojas and State Senator Gustavo Rivera\u2019s legislation addressing inequity in Article 6 public health funding played a central role in advancing this long-overdue reform. The agreement includes their bill that addresses long-overdue reforms to Article 6 public health funding formulas, resolving years of inequity that forced New York City to shoulder a disproportionate share of local public health costs due to outdated state reimbursement structures and prior cost shifts. Assemblymember Gonz\u00e1lez-Rojas commended Governor Hochul and Mayor Mamdani for their renewed commitment to collaboration between Albany and City Hall and recognized the leadership of Council Member and Health Committee Chair Lynn Schulman as a steadfast advocate for a fair and sustainable public health funding structure.<\/p>\n

\u201cA strong New York City means a stronger New York State. Today\u2019s $1.5 billion agreement reflects the kind of partnership New Yorkers deserve and marks long-overdue progress in correcting inequities in Article 6 public health funding. For years, our city has shouldered a disproportionate share of public health costs due to outdated reimbursement formulas. By restoring critical funding, including $60 million for Article 6 programs, we are strengthening our public health infrastructure and advancing equity for immigrant and working-class communities who have borne the brunt of disinvestment. While this is meaningful progress, our work is not done. We will continue fighting to ensure the remaining investments are deployed with transparency, equity, and accountability, and that working families are not left to shoulder fiscal challenges they did not create,\u201d said Assemblymember Jessica Gonz\u00e1lez-Rojas.<\/p>\n

\u201cFor far too long, our city has borne a disproportionate share of public health costs,\u201d said Council Member Lynn Schulman. \u201cYesterday\u2019s announcement of $1.5 billion in additional state operating support \u2014 including long-overdue progress on Article 6 \u2014 is a critical step toward correcting these inequities and strengthening our public health system. We must now ensure these investments are implemented transparently and equitably so working families and the communities most impacted see real relief. I remain committed to advancing a healthier, fairer New York for all,\u201d said Council Member Lynn Schulman.<\/p>\n

ADDABBO SAFETY CONCERNS ON LITHIUM FACILITIES: <\/p>\n

Ahead of the construction of lithium-ion Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in his district and in response to complaints for such facilities expressed by his constituents, NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. shared serious concerns about the siting of large-scale battery storage facilities in proximity to schools and residential neighborhoods. \u201cWhile battery energy storage plays a role in our state\u2019s clean energy future and we are in need for more electrical power, public safety must always come first,\u201d said Addabbo. \u201cWhen a large-scale lithium facility is proposed directly across from a school, we must rethink the placement of these facilities and work towards placing them away from schools and residences.\u201d<\/p>\n

Although there are currently no long-term epidemiological studies linking Battery Energy Storage Systems directly to increased cancer or chronic disease rates, documented incidents demonstrate real-world risks and concerns, including toxic gas release during fires, smoke exposure and respiratory irritation, large-scale evacuations, severe injury risk to emergency responders, and environmental contamination concerns. \u201cEven in cases where air monitoring did not exceed federal thresholds, we\u2019ve seen evacuations, public health advisories, and measurable toxic gas detections during fire events,\u201d Addabbo said. \u201cThe disruption to communities, particularly when children are involved, is significant.\u201d<\/p>\n

In response to concerns about the siting of these facilities, Senator Addabbo highlights the importance of his legislation, S.7197B (A6955C Williams), to establish clearer safety and siting standards for battery energy storage systems in New York.<\/p>\n

Specifically, Addabbo\u2019s bill, S.7197B, would:<\/p>\n

Require a minimum 250-foot setback from homes, farms, and schools for certain battery storage systems
\nMandate financial surety requirements, such as bonds or insurance, to ensure funds are available in the event of an incident or decommissioning
\nProvide municipalities with model laws and guidance on battery storage siting
\nRequire a community hearing before approval of large commercial battery storage systems in New York City
\nClarify that towns and villages may establish local regulations, but are not required to amend their codes<\/p>\n

\u201cBattery storage facilities should not be placed directly next to dense populations,\u201d Addabbo added. \u201cS.7197B strikes a responsible balance. One that supports clean energy goals while ensuring adequate setbacks, financial accountability, and meaningful community input.\u201d<\/p>\n

The proposed Middle Village facility across from P.S. 128 has prompted concern among parents, educators, and residents seeking greater clarity about potential risks, emergency response protocols, and long-term safety measures. Senator Addabbo opposes the proposed battery storage facility adjacent to the school P.S. 128. \u201cAs we move forward, we must prioritize precautionary siting standards, transparency, and local involvement well before possible construction starts,\u201d concluded Addabbo. \u201cOur children\u2019s safety and our community\u2019s peace of mind must always remain our number one priority.\u201d<\/p>\n

MENG LEADS BIPARTISAN RESOLUTION TO COMMEMORATE LUNAR NEW YEAR:<\/p>\n

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens), Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, today announced the introduction of her bipartisan resolution to honor the cultural and historical significance of Lunar New Year, which is celebrated by millions of people across the United States and around the world.<\/p>\n

\u201cLunar New Year is one of the most significant holidays for many in the Asian American community,\u201d said Meng. \u201cIt is a time for families to gather, pass down traditions, and honor our ancestors. I am proud to lead the bipartisan effort in Congress to commemorate this important holiday. Our heritage is an essential part of America\u2019s cultural fabric and deserves to be honored. May the Year of the Fire Horse bring happiness, good health, and prosperity to all.\u201d<\/p>\n

In New York City, Meng played a pivotal role in helping to make Lunar New Year a school holiday for the city\u2019s public schools. She joined New York Governor Kathy Hochul in 2023 as the Governor signed legislation declaring Lunar New Year a public school holiday in New York State. The Congresswoman first proposed closing New York schools for Lunar New Year when she was a member of the New York State Legislature in 2009.<\/p>\n

Meng is also the author of the Lunar New Year Day Act which would establish Lunar New Year as the 12th federal holiday recognized across the United States.<\/p>\n

LEE ON LUNAR NEW YEAR: <\/p>\n

Statement from Assemblymember Grace Lee for Lunar New Year: \u201cAs we celebrate Lunar New Year and welcome the new year with our families and communities, we also mark the second year that Lunar New Year is recognized as an official statewide public school holiday in New York. I am proud to have made history by leading the passage of this legislation so that students across our state no longer have to choose between being present in the classroom and honoring one of the most important cultural traditions in their lives. This law was about recognition, respect, and ensuring that our schools reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.<\/p>\n

\u201cFor generations, Asian American families quietly navigated school absences and missed lessons to observe Lunar New Year. Today, that experience has changed. Our children can celebrate openly, with the dignity of knowing their traditions are seen and valued by their state. As Chair of the Asian Pacific American Task Force and as someone who has long advocated for Asian American visibility and equity, this milestone is especially meaningful. It represents years of community advocacy and a commitment to making New York a place where every culture is acknowledged and celebrated.<\/p>\n

\u201cWishing everyone celebrating a joyful, healthy, and prosperous Lunar New Year.\u201d<\/p>\n

WON ON ST PAT\u2019S FOR ALL PARADE:<\/p>\n

Council Member Julie Won: \u201cJoin us next week, on Sunday, March 1 at the St. Pat\u2019s for All Parade! The St. Pat\u2019s for All parade is the first parade in NYC that welcomed all, regardless of race, gender, creed or sexual orientation, to celebrate Irish heritage and culture. The parade has been running for more than twenty years, and continues to be the most inclusive and progressive celebration of Irish culture and solidarity in the USA. Register here: bit.ly\/StPatsD26<\/p>\n

HOCHUL ANNOUNCES NEARLY $43 MILLION FOR JOB TRAINING PROGRAMS: <\/p>\n

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced awards totaling $42.9 million to fund job training and placement efforts across New York State for individuals impacted by addiction, who are ready to join the workforce. \u201cSupporting individuals struggling with addiction is the initial step, but it\u2019s equally important to empower these New Yorkers to secure stable employment,\u201d Governor Hochul said. \u201cThis funding will be distributed to every region across the state, reinforcing our commitment to support New Yorkers who have been impacted by addiction in starting a new chapter, while simultaneously bolstering critical workforces statewide.\u201d In Queens, Samaritan Daytop Village will receive $1,750,000.<\/p>\n

MENG ANNOUNCES FREE TAX PREPARATION SERVICES:<\/p>\n

With the 2026 tax filing season now underway, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) announced today that she has arranged for free tax preparation and filing services at her Forest Hills district office. The Congresswoman, in collaboration with Urban Upbound and New York City Council Member Lynn Schulman, will provide free, high-quality tax preparation services every Tuesday through April 14. Appointments are available in one-hour increments and will be conducted by Urban Upbound\u2019s certified tax preparers. Constituents can schedule an in-person appointment at uutaxbooking.org or by calling (718) 784-0877.<\/p>\n

Rep. Meng\u2019s Forest Hills district office is located at 118-35 Queens Blvd, Suite 900, Forest Hills. Tax preparation services at this location are available in English, Chinese, Spanish, Indonesian, and Tagalog. The Congresswoman\u2019s office can also arrange for tax preparation in other languages at nearby sites<\/p>\n

This collaboration is made possible by Urban Upbound\u2019s participation in the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection\u2019s (DCWP) NYC Free Tax Prep Program, which ensures that eligible New Yorkers can have their taxes expertly prepared and filed, for free. Urban Upbound has partnered with DCWP for 20 years to help working families take advantage of tax credits, avoid junk fees and predatory filing services, and ultimately, maximize their tax refund.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m excited to provide these important services and I encourage constituents in need of assistance to take advantage of this no-cost tax preparation and filing service,\u201d said Congresswoman Grace Meng. \u201cI look forward to this valuable resource benefiting many throughout my congressional district and helping families keep as much money as possible in their pockets. Thank you to DCWP and Urban Upbound for making these services available to my constituents.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFor too many families, tax season can feel overwhelming and expensive\u2014but it doesn\u2019t have to be,\u201d said Council Member Lynn Schulman. \u201cI\u2019m proud to partner with Congresswoman Meng and Urban Upbound to bring free, IRS-certified tax preparation services directly to our district. This initiative helps working families claim the credits and refunds they\u2019ve earned, avoid predatory fees, and keep more of their hard-earned money where it belongs\u2014in their own pockets.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFor 20 years, Urban Upbound has partnered with DCWP to ensure working families can have their taxes filed by IRS-certified preparers, completely free of charge,\u201d said Bishop Mitchell G. Taylor, co-founder and CEO of Urban Upbound. \u201cBy opening their district office to us, Congresswoman Meng and Council Member Schulman have made it easier for central Queens residents to access this cost-saving service. We are grateful for their collaboration.\u201d In the most recent tax season, Urban Upbound prepared and filed more than 21,000 tax returns for New Yorkers\u2013returning over 28 million dollars in refunds and achieving a 98.2 percent accuracy rate\u2013 making it the #1 free tax preparation provider in New York State and #3 in the country. Urban Upbound can prepare and file taxes for households generally earning $97,000 or less annually. The deadline to file federal and New York State tax returns for tax year 2025, and to submit any tax payments that are due, is April 15, 2026. Urban Upbound is a New York City-based nonprofit organization dedicated to helping New Yorkers achieve economic prosperity and self-sufficiency. The organization operates a large-scale free tax preparation program from over 50 locations across NYC and online via its virtual platform: uutax.org<\/p>\n

SENATE PASSES ADDABBO VETERANS\u2019 BILL: <\/p>\n

The State Senate passed S.1188, legislation sponsored by Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., a proud member of the Veterans, Homeland Security, and Military Affairs Committee, to protect congressionally chartered veterans\u2019 organizations by establishing a 120-day warning period to allow for the correction of certain violations issued on their posts or veterans buildings, before any fines are imposed. Following Senate passage, the bill has been returned to the New York State Assembly and referred to the Assembly Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee for consideration.<\/p>\n

According to Addabbo\u2019s bill, congressionally chartered veterans\u2019 organizations, including local American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) posts, would receive written notice and a 120-day opportunity to remedy certain violations before fines are issued. The bill also allows organizations to request a written extension if they can demonstrate a good-faith effort to resolve the violation. Violations that pose an imminent threat to public health or safety, as well as violations of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law, are exempt from this warning period.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy bill recognizes the invaluable role veterans\u2019 organizations and their posts play in supporting those who have sacrificed for our country,\u201d said Addabbo. \u201cThese posts are pillars of their communities, providing services, community space, guidance, and a sense of brotherhood to veterans and their families. By allowing a reasonable 120-day warning period to correct violations, we are ensuring that these organizations are treated fairly and allowed to comply without facing immediate financial penalties that could jeopardize their mission.\u201d<\/p>\n

CUNY RECEIVES A RECORD $25 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING:<\/p>\n

The City University of New York received a record $25 million as part of the U.S. Congressional Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations, which will support 21 projects and programs across 15 campuses. The funding will help establish workforce development in growing industries like AI, promote public safety and expand academic programs.<\/p>\n

The appropriations were supported by U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, as well as House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Congress Members Yvette Clarke, Adriano Espaillat, Daniel Goldman, Nicole Malliotakis, Gregory Meeks, Grace Meng, Jerrold Nadler and Ritchie Torres.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe are grateful to Senate Minority Leader Schumer, Senator Gillibrand, House Minority Leader Jeffries and to the bipartisan members of New York\u2019s congressional delegation for this funding,\u201d said CUNY Chancellor F\u00e9lix V. Matos Rodr\u00edguez. \u201cFederal support will safeguard CUNY\u2019s proven ability to provide an affordable, high-quality education that prepares students for academic and professional success in a fast-changing world.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m thrilled to have secured millions of dollars for key projects at Queens College and Queensborough Community College,\u201d said U.S. Rep. Grace Meng. \u201cBoth are outstanding institutions in my congressional district, and this funding will go a long way in preparing students for their careers and benefiting communities in our borough. I\u2019m excited to see these projects become realities; the childcare center at Queensborough and the Tech Incubator expansion, digital forensics and nanofabrication research at Queens College.\u201d<\/p>\n

Queens College \u2013 $4.1 million:<\/p>\n

$1 million from Rep. Meeks for \u201cSTEM Improvement Through Authentic Research Projects,\u201d a series of ten, 3-day teacher certification workshops for 100 elementary school teachers and 80 secondary teachers in the Metropolitan area.<\/p>\n

$1 million from Rep. Meng to construct a cleanroom facility for nanofabrication teaching and research.<\/p>\n

$1 million from Rep. Meng to create the Queens College Working Group for Digital Forensics.<\/p>\n

$1 million from Rep. Meng to develop a new Technology and Innovation Hub that will utilize emerging technologies to educate and empower underserved populations in Queens.<\/p>\n

Queensborough Community College \u2013 $3.1 million:<\/p>\n

From Senator Schumer and Rep. Meng to build a childcare center on campus.<\/p>\n

York College \u2013 $2 million:<\/p>\n

$1 million from Rep. Meeks to establish a STEM education program with a focus on cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and machine learning.<\/p>\n

$1 million from Rep. Meeks to advance workforce development in the field of Environmental Sciences.<\/p>\n

WON TO PRESENT LAGUARDIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE WITH $3 MILLION:<\/p>\n

On Friday, February 20, Council Member Julie Won (District 26) presented Kenneth Adams, President of LaGuardia Community College\/CUNY with a $3 million check for capital improvements at the college. The funding will enable a renovation of the two primary entrances of LaGuardia\u2019s E-Building, to enhance ADA accessibility, and improve energy efficiency. It will also enable upgrades to the college\u2019s Cobblestone Courtyard\u2014including ADA-accessible pathways, railings, doors, lighting, and seating\u2014enhancing a popular outdoor gathering and performance space.<\/p>\n

MAMDANI ISSUES CITYWIDE \u201cSUBSCRIPTION TRAP\u201d COMPLIANCE WARNING: <\/p>\n

Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) launched a compliance blitz, sending warning notices to 187 gyms and health clubs across the city including PureGym, Planet Fitness, and Equinox.<\/p>\n

The letters\u202furge businesses to comply with state law governing membership cancellations and with the city\u2019s Consumer Protection law, which prohibits deceptive advertising, like bait-and-switch pricing, that makes cancellations intentionally difficult. This outreach follows Mayor Mamdani\u2019s\u202fexecutive order\u202fdirecting DCWP to lead a citywide crackdown on hidden junk fees and subscription traps. \u201cNew Yorkers shouldn\u2019t need a personal trainer to cancel a gym membership,\u201d said Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani. \u201cIf a company makes it easy to sign up but nearly impossible to walk away, we will enforce the law and protect your time and your money.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGoing to the gym is good for your health, but having to jump through hoops to cancel an unwanted membership is a waste of your time and money,\u201d said DCWP Commissioner Sam Levine. \u201cOur citywide warning to gyms makes it clear that DCWP will not hesitate to take aggressive enforcement action against gyms using deceptive tactics that hurt consumers, as well as honest businesses playing by the rules.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gyms often force consumers through cumbersome and unnecessary hoops in order to cancel unwanted memberships. For example, a gym may offer a membership for free that turns out to be a bait-and-switch scheme where New Yorkers incur fees unexpectedly after enrollment. Others impose unnecessary hurdles without clear disclosure or burdensome administrative requirements before honoring cancellation requests. In 2025, the Department received dozens of complaints from consumers struggling to cancel their gym memberships.<\/p>\n

Mayor Mamdani\u2019s subscription traps executive order directs DCWP \u201cto monitor, investigate, and enforce violations related to subscription tricks and traps,\u201d including practices such as making cancellation of subscriptions or memberships intentionally difficult.<\/p>\n

CAB\u00c1N ENDORSES BRIAN ROMERO FOR STATE ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 34:<\/p>\n

In a major boost to an already surging grassroots campaign, New York City Council Member Tiffany Cab\u00e1n has endorsed Brian Romero for State Assembly in District 34, backing his people-powered movement to deliver for working-class Queens.<\/p>\n

\u201cBrian Romero has been a fearless advocate for all our Queens neighbors. As a policy advocate, he worked to repeal anti-trans discriminatory loitering laws. In Albany he delivered on street safety, funding for universal free school meals, and more. He knows how urgent the needs of immigrants, LGBTQ+ and working-class New Yorkers are. And the man is tireless! I am proud to stand with Brian and his broad coalition to deliver for the people of District 34. Pa\u2019lante,\u201d said NYC Council Member Tiffany Cab\u00e1n.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m honored to have Council Member Tiffany Cab\u00e1n\u2019s endorsement,\u201d said Brian Romero. \u201cTiffany\u2019s race for District Attorney was an incredible example of what it meant to build a progressive and broad coalition, which inspired me to join DSA and has led to many victories we have seen today of socialists and leftists who have run for office.\u201d<\/p>\n

HOTEL AND GAMING TRADES COUNCIL BACKS GONZ\u00c1LEZ-ROJAS:<\/p>\n

The Hotel and Gaming Trades Council, AFL-CIO (HTC), one of New York\u2019s most influential and respected labor unions representing approximately 40,000 hotel and hospitality workers in the New York City area, today announced its endorsement of Assembly Member Jessica Gonz\u00e1lez-Rojas for New York State Senate, District 13. Following the powerful endorsement from 1199SEIU earlier this month, HTC\u2019s support further demonstrates growing labor momentum behind Gonz\u00e1lez-Rojas\u2019 campaign and reflects deep confidence in her proven record of standing with working families, immigrant workers, and union members across Queens.<\/p>\n

ENVIRONMENTAL GROUPS SUE NEW YORK CITY OVER FLUSHING CREEK:<\/p>\n

Riverkeeper, Save the Sound, and Guardians of Flushing Bay have filed a lawsuit against the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) challenging the City\u2019s plan to construct chlorination facilities to treat sewage pollution in Flushing Creek. The groups argue that the proposal is an inadequate, risky, and ultimately harmful response to one of Queens\u2019 most severe and persistent water pollution problems.<\/p>\n

Each year, roughly one billion gallons of raw sewage and trash-filled stormwater flow into the creek through the City\u2019s combined sewer system, which discharges directly into local waterways when it rains as little as one tenth of an inch. The DEP intends to chlorinate the sewage with the goal of reducing bacteria levels, and then dechlorinate the sewage before it enters the creek. But even with dechlorination, some level of chlorine\u2013\u2013as well as toxic byproduct chemicals\u2013\u2013is likely to enter the creek, threatening fish and other aquatic life. Further, there is limited evidence that chlorination effectively reduces bacteria in wastewater, and this approach would not cut down the amount of sewage and trash that ends up in the water.<\/p>\n

The suit aims to require the City to comply with the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) and complete a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement that gives due consideration to the potential harms of relying on chlorination to treat CSO discharges, and evaluates alternatives that could more effectively address wastewater pollution, protect public health, and restore Flushing Creek. These alternatives include pursuing long-term solutions that actually reduce sewage entering the waterway, like expanding green infrastructure such as roofs with vegetation that absorbs rain and routing sewage to a new wastewater treatment facility at Rikers Island. Flushing Creek has endured decades of neglect, and New Yorkers deserve solutions that don\u2019t simply treat some of the symptoms of pollution, but that truly clean the water, protect wildlife, and respect the communities that live, work, and recreate along the water.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

*** CRIME BLOTTER ***<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

QUEENS MAN SENTENCED TO 22 \u00bd YEARS IN PRISON: <\/p>\n

Defendant Killed East Elmhurst Woman Over Rent Dispute<\/p>\n

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Davi Vidal was sentenced to 22 \u00bd years in prison for killing his 55-year-old landlady, Zoraida Leo, by strangulation in December 2023. Vidal, also known as Deiby Vidal, leased an attic unit in the victim\u2019s multi-unit residence in East Elmhurst for two years before the deadly confrontation over unpaid rent.<\/p>\n

District Attorney Katz said: \u201cThis defendant brutally attacked Zoraida Leo after a rent dispute and then callously left her to die on the floor of her own home. No family should endure the loss of a loved one in such a cruel manner. We cannot undo this egregious harm, but with this sentence we have helped secure justice for Ms. Leo\u2019s family.\u201d<\/p>\n

Vidal, 21, of East Elmhurst, pleaded guilty last month to manslaughter in the first degree in satisfaction of the indictment against him. Queens Supreme Court Justice Ushir Pandit-Durant sentenced him today to 22 \u00bd years in prison to be followed by five years of post-release supervision.<\/p>\n

DA Katz said that, according to the indictment and investigation, on December 4, 2023, Zoraida Leo told a witness that she wanted to discuss outstanding rent with Vidal, who had lived in the attic apartment in her East Elmhurst home for approximately two years. Around 7:30 p.m. that evening, she called Vidal downstairs to her residence. Vidal and the victim argued over the rent and the dispute became physical. Vidal strangled the victim to death with his hands and the cord from an iron. The following day, after Leo did not show up for work or respond to calls from family members, her son went to her residence and discovered the victim lying deceased in her bathroom entryway. Police who responded to the scene observed Vidal crying with visible scratch marks on his face. An autopsy by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner later determined that Leo died by strangulation.<\/p>\n

MONSERRATE STATEMENT ON ZORAIDA LEO:<\/p>\n

Former Senator and District Leader Hiram Monserrate said, \u201cZoraida Leo and her family are the quintessential model American family. They came to the U.S. legally from the Dominican Republic. They worked hard, raised a big family, went to church, bought a house, and were civically engaged. America needs more of that. Today\u2019s sentencing closes a painful chapter in our community. The family has some closure but will forever endure the pain of this loss. This is so excruciating and sad. I knew Zoraida, she was a beautiful loving person. The defendant who is now a convicted killer will spend a great portion of his life in a prison cell and then rightfully face deportation. It is all so tragic. A special thank you to the Queens District Attorney\u2019s office and the NYPD for seeing the case through and securing this conviction.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2014With contributions by Augusta Luger <\/p>\n

This column was originated by John A. Toscano. <\/p>\n

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